Imphal : Residents of 28 Meitei villages in the peripheral areas of Imphal East district have appealed to Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to retain the designated camp of the Pambei-led United National Liberation Front (UNLF) at Nungshum village, citing its role in maintaining security and stability in the region.

The appeal follows a protest staged on Wednesday at Nungshum, after which a delegation representing the villages met the Chief Minister and submitted a memorandum outlining their concerns.

In their representation, the residents highlighted the vulnerability of peripheral areas, particularly along the Khamenlok Hill Range in the Uyumpok-Nongshum belt, which they said have remained severely affected since the outbreak of the ongoing crisis in the state. They alleged that the presence of armed groups, including factions linked to Kuki militants operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) arrangement, has contributed to a deteriorating security environment.

The memorandum also referred to activities from camps such as the so-called Sinai Camp, which villagers claimed have fostered an atmosphere of fear, disrupting normal life in the region.

However, residents noted that the situation improved significantly following the establishment of the Pambei-led UNLF camp at Nungshum. They asserted that the camp’s presence has been instrumental in restoring a sense of safety and stability across the affected villages.

Expressing concern over reports of a possible relocation or withdrawal of the camp, the villagers urged the state government not to take any step that could undermine the fragile security situation.

Responding to the delegation, Chief Minister Singh said the matter is under “careful and serious consideration.” In a statement issued after meeting 25 representatives at the state secretariat, he assured that no hasty decision would be taken.

“All aspects will be thoroughly examined to ensure that the safety and protection of the villages are fully safeguarded,” he said, underscoring the government’s commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and security in the region.

The development comes amid continuing tensions in Manipur’s hill and valley areas, where security arrangements remain a key concern for residents in vulnerable border zones.